Machida last competed at UFC 163, where he lost a controversial
decision to Phil Davis.
After beginning his professional career with 16 consecutive wins,
“The Dragon” is 3-4 in the Octagon since 2010. Earlier in 2013,
Machida captured a split verdict over Dan Henderson
at UFC 157.

A two-time Strikeforce
title challenger, Kennedy made his promotional debut in July,
winning a unanimous decision against Roger Gracie
at UFC 162. The Army Special Forces member compiled a 6-2 mark in
Strikeforce, falling short in championship bouts against Ronaldo Souza
and Luke
Rockhold.